Abdominoplasty vs. Apronectomy

Abdominoplasty and Apronectomy are both types of abdominal surgery which address common concerns affecting the contours and function of the abdomen.

While Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic and functional procedure that reshapes and tightens the abdomen, an Apronectomy is a functional procedure that specifically addresses a hanging apron of skin, known as a pannus, usually for medical reasons.

The abdomen is a prominent feature of the body, and its contours and function can be affected by pregnancy, weight fluctuations and ageing.

Concerns affecting the abdomen can impact:

• Confidence and quality of life
• Mobility
• Physical comfort
• How an individual presents themselves, including the clothes they feel comfortable in

Although Abdominoplasty and Apronectomy are similar procedures in many ways, they serve distinct purposes and results. If you are considering abdominal surgery, it is important to understand the differences between the two procedures to determine which is suitable to address your concerns and achieve your desired results.

Cadogan Clinic’s team of leading Consultant Body Surgeons are experts in performing all types of abdominal surgery. They offer comprehensive consultation and treatment at our surgical centre of excellence, based in Chelsea, London.

What is an Abdominoplasty?

An Abdominoplasty, also known as a Tummy Tuck, is a surgical procedure which reshapes and tightens the abdominal skin and muscle.

There are several types of Abdominoplasty depending on the patient’s concerns and desired results:

• Standard Abdominoplasty – Addresses the lower and mid-abdomen via a horizontal incision at the bottom of the abdomen
• Extended Abdominoplasty – A longer horizontal incision is made to address the abdomen, hips and lower back
• Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty – Both a horizontal incision along the bottom of the abdomen, and a vertical incision up the centre of the abdomen are made to address the upper and lower abdomen
• Brazilian Abdominoplasty – Also known as a Lipoabdominoplasty, this technique combines Liposuction with Abdominoplasty

During an Abdominoplasty, excess skin is removed, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and the navel is repositioned to create a toned, flat abdomen.

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic and typically takes up to 4 hours, depending on the technique used.

What is an Apronectomy?

Also known as a Panniculectomy, an Apronectomy is a functional abdominal surgery which specifically addresses a hanging apron of abdominal skin, fat and tissue, known as a pannus or apron stomach. It is often performed as a post weight loss procedure.

During an Apronectomy, incisions are made across the lower abdomen, under the apron stomach, before the excess skin is removed. The incision is then closed, leaving a smooth lower abdomen with no excess skin.

Depending on the patient's desired results, other body contouring procedures, such as BodyTite, can be performed concurrently to enhance the final results. In some cases, patients may wish to have an Abdominoplasty as a follow-up procedure to address other concerns.

Apronectomy surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, and takes 2-3 hours to complete.

Which Abdominal Surgery is Right For Me?

If you are considering abdominal surgery, it is essential to understand what each procedure can offer and whether it is suitable for addressing your concerns.

The best way to determine the right abdomen surgery for you is to speak with a qualified Consultant Body Surgeon who can assess your concerns and develop a bespoke treatment plan.

Concerns Treated with Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty is a comprehensive surgical procedure which addresses a wide range of abdominal concerns:

• Excess skin – Pregnancy, weight loss and ageing can all cause the skin to stretch and become loose
• Stubborn fat – Fat deposits under the skin can become resistant to weight loss methods such as dieting and exercise
• Muscular conditions – The abdominal muscles can become weakened or separated due to pregnancy or injury (diastasis recti)
• Skin irritation – Folds of skin and chafing can cause long-term skin irritation, which is challenging to treat and manage

Concerns Treated with Apronectomy

Apronectomy is an abdominal surgery which addresses specific concerns:

• Excess skin – An apron of loose skin hanging over the front of the abdomen can occur due to dramatic weight loss or pregnancy
• Skin irritation – Rashes and chafing can develop due to the skin rubbing, causing physical discomfort
• Hygiene challenges – Deep folds of skin can trap moisture and bacteria, making hygiene challenging
• Mobility – A large pannus can reduce mobility, making it hard to exercise and affecting quality of life

A qualified surgeon can examine and assess your concerns to determine which is the best treatment option for you.

When Should I Get an Abdominoplasty or Apronectomy

Abdominoplasty and Apronectomy are both types of abdominal surgery which can address the common concern of loose belly skin.

However, they have distinct purposes and can address different concerns, depending on cause, severity and the patient’s desired results.

It is important to understand these differences to ensure you make the right decision about which procedure is best for you:

• For a comprehensive abdominal surgery, addressing loose skin, muscle damage and excess fat, Abdominoplasty is usually the most appropriate procedure
• To specifically address functional concerns around an overhanging apron stomach (known as a pannus) Apronectomy is the most suitable option

Cadogan Clinic’s team of dedicated patient advisors are on hand to discuss your concerns and match you with the best surgeon to achieve your desired results.

Frequently Asked Questions